Course Individually
Course Description
A CPA is challenged in today’s work world to not only serve his/her client or employer but also to protect the public interest by ensuring that there is transparency in financial reporting or there is fair administration of the tax laws. In balancing the two interests, a CPA may find him or herself in an ethical dilemma. This course covers not only basic ethical frameworks, but also specific rules from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, and the Delaware Statues, Administrative Rules and Code of Professional Conduct. These sources govern the practice and responsibilities of Delaware CPAs. It concludes with a section on how a CPA can put his or her ethics into action.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, students should be able to:
- To apply the ethics of professional accounting as CPAs through the analysis of case studies involving both actual situations and hypothetical facts.
- To apply ethical judgment in interpreting the rules and determining public interest. Public interest should be placed ahead of self-interest, even if it means a loss of job or client.
- To analyze and apply the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and Delaware law that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in the state of Delaware. Students will become familiar with the Delaware Statues, Rules and Regulations and Code of Professional Conduct, and the Policies adopted by the Board currently in effect and how the statutes, rules, and policies pertain to them.
- To determine the course of action that would uphold the intent of the rules in the performance of professional accounting services/work, not just to adhere to the mere technical compliance of such rules.
- To review and discuss the rules and their implications for persons in a variety of practices, including:
- CPAs who provide assurance, attest or compilation services.
- CPAs who provide tax services.
Recommended CPE Hours: 4 CPE credit hours will be granted based on a 50-minute hour in accordance with the standards of the Delaware Board of Accountancy.
Prerequisites: None
Field of Study: Regulatory Ethics
Program Level: Basic
Advanced Preparation: None
Delivery Method: Self-Study
Author: Allison M. McLeod LL.M., JD, CPA
DE Sponsor Statement: Allison M. McLeod, LL.M., CPA, A PLLC, is registered with the Delaware Board of Accountancy as a sponsor of continuing professional education.
Date course was updated: March 14, 2023
